Black Trumpet is a family-owned bistro and wine bar in the heart of Portsmouth’s historic old port. Both floors offer views of the Piscataqua River and the oft-photographed tugboats that still escort enormous tankers into the harbor.

Signatures on the hand-hewn beams in the wine bar from the early 19th century reveal the space’s original occupant, a ship’s chandlery that sold wares to the many colonial ships using the harbor. On a more contemporary historical note, the address 29 Ceres has hosted two of the most distinguished dining destinations the Seacoast area has ever seen: Blue Strawbery (1970-1996), and Lindbergh’s Crossing (1996-2007).

Our first floor dining room offers a cozy, romantic setting with warm, unassuming service. The upstairs wine bar is a more intimate, convivial space enlivened by conversation and a great atmosphere. Reservations are accepted in our dining room, and the wine bar is first-come-first-served.

The menu changes every six weeks to capitalize on the freshest seasonal ingredients. The wine list features a variety of unheralded gems that pair well with the bold flavors of Chef Mallett’s cuisine. Black Trumpet’s cuisine reflects the chef-owner’s culinary curiosity, drawing inspiration from the Mediterranean as well as the Americas. A typical Black Trumpet menu may include influences from Spain, North Africa, Turkey and the Mexican heartland.

Dinner is served nightly in the wine bar from 5:00 and in the dining room from 5:30.

Reservations are recommended for the dining room. The wine bar is first-come-first-serve.